Actually, I have felt inclined to include an significant opportunity for reflection, planning, and spiritual refreshment at the end of the calendar year. I had originally planned for that to take the shape of a 2 or 3-day retreat/sabbath get-a-way starting this past Sunday. But due to some poor planning and some back pain, I post-poned for a few days.

Along with this 2-3 day end-of-the-year reatreat, I am adding two more similar spiritual pilgrimages to my calendar in order to maintain a good rhythm of rest & reflection. My next one will probably be at the beginning of Spring quarter and then another in late August or early September.

As I look forward to planning and setting a good trajectory for the journey in 2010, that playful impulse to just poke my head out the window and enjoy the ride is definitely getting the best of me.

In just about 9 days students will return to their academic, social, and vocational pursuits here in Cincinnati. One of the things I hope to accomplish as I connect with and build relationships with these university students is to make them aware of the spiritual pursuit which can infuse their college years with even greater purpose and meaning. For many of us, our college experience was the launching pad of life…establishing a trajectory which impacts so many decisions and people.

Alec Hill, the president of InterVarsity campus ministry was recently quoted as saying “The campus is our mission field. By changing lives on campus we can change the world.”

I agree! And I can’t wait to start meeting the students God is going to allow me to disciple, encourage, and befriend.

UC is an exciting place to be!   (as are all colleges and universities, eh?)